The Department of Health has published a Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA) core dataset - a list of indicators that can assist partners in preparing their JSNA, with detailed information on each indicator. The dataset takes into account the National Indicator Set and Vital Signs and provides 'a good foundation that can be supplemented with local data and information.'
Unfortunately the dataset authors appear not to know about the NWPHO local alcohol profiles. For alcohol, the dataset comprises the following:
- Alcohol-harm related hospital admission rates (NI 39 and Vital Sign VSC26) (using the NI definition)
- Modelled and/or recorded drinking behaviour (using local surveys (where available) and Neighbourhood Statistics: LA Model-Based Estimates of Healthy Lifestyles Behaviours, 2003-05)
Surely the NWPHO indicators on prevalence, health harm and numbers on benefits due to alcoholism are perfect for the JSNA? And why not include some indications of local numbers in treatment against predicted need (as per the Alcohol Needs Assessment Research Project, ANARP)?
The Dept of Health says 'work on the core dataset is ongoing and as the work evolves, indicators may be added, removed or amended.' So perhaps this can be put right.
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